As weather forecasts for the Coastal Bend this summer predict an active hurricane season and record-breaking heat for South Texas, it’s important to pay attention to the condition of your roof. A small issue gone unnoticed now can lead to headaches and cost you thousands of dollars to address. To help figure out whether it’s time for a professional inspection of your roof, learn to look for these signs of potential problems.
You can often see many of these issues by looking at your roof from the ground but if you plan on using a ladder to take a closer look, follow this link for tips on safe ladder use. Safe Ladder Practices
Visible damage
- Missing or damaged shingles: As the top protective layer of your roof, signs of curling, cracking or bald spots on shingles are a clear sign there may be an issue with your roof. Cracked or broken tile on tile roofs are another indicator of a possible leak.
- Granule loss: Most homes use asphalt shingles that have embedded granules providing protection from UV rays. If you notice those particles shedding from the shingles or gathering in gutters or on the ground, this can lead to accelerated aging of the shingle, reducing its life and ability to insulate excessive temperatures.
- Flashing issues: Chimneys, skylights, vent pipes, transitions and outside walls all use flashing to help keep water and moisture from sensitive areas of your roof. These can crack or become loose which can create potential leak points. Keep an eye out for excessive rusting that can lead to these problems.
- Gutter issues: Clogged or overflowing gutters can create issues not just for your roof, but siding as well. Water and moisture can build up at these points, deteriorating roofing and siding and could also result in water pooling near sensitive areas of your home, affecting your foundation.
Signs of water intrusion
- Stains on ceiling or walls: Water stains on ceilings and interior walls can point to a possible roof issue. Brown or yellow stains can be indicative that the moisture is traveling from a roof or down support beams and rafters.
- Mold growth: Damp environments can lead to mold that if seen in your ceiling or attic, can point to a potenial problem.
- Sagging roof deck: While not as easily seen from the ground, a sagging roof can be a sign of a serious structural issue often caused by water damage or improper ventilation. DO NOT attempt walking on your roof should you notice an area drooping lower than the rest of the field.
Other possible warning signs:
- Increased energy bills: An improperly sealed or damgaged roof can lead to higher energy usage as your HVAC system works harder to maintain comfortable temperatures.
- Light peeking through attic: While most vents holes in your attic will normally see some light coming through, light cutting through areas not near vents can point to possible gaps in roof decking that can cause issues.
If you notice any of these potential signs or if you just want to have peace of mind knowing your roof is ready for the summer, reach out to Berryman Roofing for a free roof inspection. We can offer helpful information to help maintain the life of your home and give you several options to meet your needs.